Gay entertainer denies racism charges

Australian singer Darren Hayes has denied accusations that he racially abused a waiter in a Thai restaurant in London.

He was arrested by police and has been bailed. The alleged incident happened in Busaba Eathai restaurant on July 22nd.

The Metropolitan Police issued this statement.

“We can confirm that a 35-year-old man was arrested by Westminster police on suspicion of racially abusing a member of staff.

“He was arrested after voluntarily attending a Central London police station by appointment. He has been released on bail pending further inquiries, until the 21st of September.”

Mr Hayes’ solicitor posted a statement on the singer’s website today:

“Darren is unable to comment to any extent as the incident is presently under investigation by the police, with whom he has cooperated fully,” the statement said.

“However, he is deeply upset at the allegation, which he strenuously denies, and anyone who knows Darren will recognise that the particular nature of the allegation is totally abhorrent to him and contrary to everything for which he has stood.”

The former frontman of Savage Garden played at London’s Pride event in Trafalgar Square in June.

Brisbane-born Hayes ended speculation over his sexuality after he came out in 2006 and revealed he was in a civil partnership.

The solo singer had often remained silent on his private life.

Earlier this month he criticised the attitude of Australian Prime Minister John Howard’s towards gay marriage after his British ‘husband’ was forced to fly to Australia on a tourist visa.

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